A SKIER from the region fell to his death in the French Alps while trying to help a friend who was in difficulties.

Jordan Waugh, a 23-year-old from York, died last Saturday afternoon while working in the ski resort of Alpe d’Huez.

His family, including mum Karen and her partner Andy, dad Nick and sister Kennedy, travelled to France after the accident and have paid tribute to a beloved brother and son.

They described him as a high achiever as well as keen sportsman - and said he dreamt of joining the forces as an officer after his time in Alpe d’Huez.

Writing on Facebook, Kennedy thanked family and friends for their support as the family struggles to come to terms with the loss.

Jordan had spent time working at his family’s businesses Sotano Charcuterie and Bar and Kennedy’s in Little Stonegate.

He grew up in York and teachers at one of this school, All Saints RC, said they were shocked and saddened by the news.

“He is very fondly remembered by the current staff at school who knew him. They spoke of a young man who contributed to the full life of the school and always seemed to have a smile on his face,” said a spokesman.

“We would like to extend our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies to Jordan’s family and friends at this most challenging time.”

After school and college in York he went to Northumbria University and in 2016 gained a first-class honours degree in sports management followed by an MSc in international business management, with distinction.

Besides his academic success, he was project manager for Durham’s Dragon Boat Festival in 2016, went to Nayang Polytechnic in Singapore for an internship, and played an active part in the Great North Run opening ceremony in 2014.

Jordan was among a group of three, all experienced skiers, when he fell from a cliff after trying to help a friend who had got into difficulties off-piste.

VIP Ski said three of its staff were involved in the accident, and while one was still in intensive care, her injuries were not life threatening. The third was unhurt.

MD Andy Sturt added: “Our efforts are currently concentrated on providing unlimited support and assistance to the victims of the accident, their colleagues and most importantly, the family of the deceased."